Stories hold the power to shape consciousness, influence culture, and transform society—but they can also harm when misused. In today’s media landscape, creators face unprecedented challenges: gatekeepers, shifting audience expectations, trends, and even AI tools that change how content is produced and consumed. Yet within these challenges lies immense opportunity: the chance to claim your voice, tell stories with integrity, and shape culture for the better.

This panel brings together filmmakers, writers, actors, producers, and cultural entrepreneurs to explore how media can be a tool for impact. Participants will share the practical steps, strategies, and mindset shifts necessary to finance, produce, and share work that uplifts, educates, and transforms—while resisting the cycles of exploitation, trauma sensationalism, and disempowering narratives.

You’ll hear from creators who have navigated industry barriers, built platforms with purpose, and crafted projects that honor marginalized communities. Through conversation, real-world insights, and actionable advice, this panel will empower attendees to:

• Secure financing and resources for purpose-driven projects

• Tell hard truths responsibly while honoring the lived experiences of those represented

• Center marginalized voices and amplify stories that are often overlooked

• Use media as a force to shift consciousness, inspire action, and create long-term cultural impact

Whether you are a filmmaker, writer, producer, or creative entrepreneur, this panel will give you the tools, inspiration, and courage to create work that matters, even in a world full of gatekeepers, noise, and technological disruption.

Join us for this essential conversation and discover how to turn your story into a force for collective healing and transformation.

Panelists:

Julie Romain-Solinger – A film and music producer with Worldwide Entertainment Media, Julie blends her expertise in production with her musical roots to bring stories to life. With a heart for impact, she uses her creative and entrepreneurial talents to craft films and music that move audiences and make a difference.

Tiandra Gayle – A highly respected casting director with Tyler Perry Studios, Tiandra has a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of how stories land through the people who embody them. Her work ensures authenticity in storytelling while advocating for diverse representation on screen.

Shelon Douglas – Executive Producer and founder of Screenixx, Shelon is a powerhouse creativepreneur transforming how stories are produced, packaged, and monetized. Bold, unapologetic, and visionary, she’s building platforms and pipelines that empower creators to own their narratives and their futures.

Rachelle Neal – Actress, producer, writer, and founder of The ID Media Group, Rachelle has appeared in shows like Black Lightning and Meet the Browns while producing her own projects, including Interrogation Room. Beyond entertainment, she mentors youth, runs her nonprofit The ID Project, and champions community uplift through education and media.

Moderator:

Vondell Richmond – An MFA-trained actor, award-winning filmmaker, ordained minister, and NLP-trained coach, Vondell brings depth, wisdom, and faith to the craft of storytelling. As the writer, co-producer, and star of Sophisticated Romance, he embodies the art of intentional creation—equipping others to walk boldly in their calling while navigating the business and spiritual dimensions of film and media.